5 days From Marrakech to the Merzouga Desert

Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas – Ouarzazate – Skoura – Dades Gorges

The 5-day journey from Marrakech to the Merzouga desert begins shortly after our meeting. We will head toward the Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, traveling along the scenic High Atlas road. We will stop at Ait Benhaddou, one of Morocco’s most iconic locations and a famous backdrop for Hollywood films such as *Gladiator* and *Kingdom of Heaven*. Afterward, we continue to Ouarzazate, which also features prominently in these films. We will then visit the Skoura Oasis, one of the most lush oases in Morocco. Finally, we head to the Dades Valley and its gorges to explore the rock formations known as the “Monkey Toes” before checking into a hotel with panoramic views.

Day 2: Dades Gorges – Todra Gorges – Merzouga – Erg Chebbi

After breakfast and a shower, we will head to Tinghir, an oasis town, and the Todra Gorges. These gorges are the highest canyons in Morocco, offering truly impressive landscapes. Next, we travel to the Tafilalt Oasis, home to the largest palm groves in the country. After visiting the desert towns of Erfoud and Rissani, we arrive at our destination: Merzouga. We will settle into a hotel to rest and relax.

Day 3: Merzouga – Rissani – Erg Chebbi – Merzouga

In the morning, we will explore the Merzouga region, starting with Rissani, historically an important market for caravans. Next, we visit Khamlia, a village with a rich tradition of Gnawa music. We then head to Lake Dayet Srij, which hosts flamingos and other migratory birds during the spring. Afterward, we will visit nomad families in their traditional tents. At the end of the day, we return to Merzouga to begin our camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes. We will climb the high dunes to witness a fascinating sunset before heading to the desert camp. There, we will enjoy activities like dancing to live traditional music and stargazing. The nomads will host us until we retire for the night.

Day 4: Merzouga – Erg Chebbi – Rissani – Alnif – Tazarin – Draa Valley – Ouarzazate

We will rise early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Sahara dunes. After a shower at the hotel and breakfast, we will take a final look at the Erg Chebbi dunes. We then depart for Ouarzazate, passing through Alnif, the Tazarin Oasis, N’kob, and the Draa Valley. We will visit the Taourirt Kasbah and the Skoura Oasis once more before spending the night at a hotel in Ouarzazate.

Day 5: Ouarzazate – Cinema Studios – High Atlas Road – Marrakech

After breakfast, we travel to the Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This is the largest Kasbah in Morocco and has appeared in numerous Hollywood films and the series *Game of Thrones*. Upon arriving in Marrakech via the High Atlas road, we will explore fascinating sites such as the Majorelle Gardens and Jemaa El Fna Square—the busiest square in Africa and one of the most exotic places in the world.

Note: If you wish to modify this tour, please let us know your ideas and travel plans. We can create a similar or different program tailored to your needs. Contact us for more information.